Trying to figure out what food would be best for your cat? Just like you would do for yourself, finding the right cat food for your beloved furbaby is an essential task that helps ensure your pet’s health and wellness. The right food prevents a host of different cat-specific conditions and diseases, and makes sure that your cat looks and feels healthy on the daily.

There’s a ton of different cat food choices on the market. But possibly the easiest to find and the easiest to prepare for your pet would be kibble. If you’re hoping to find the best dry cat food there is, be sure to take a minute to read this complete guide on buying the right kibble for your little feline.

Quick Snapshot: The 4 Top Dry Cat Foods​

Wet Food vs Dry Food

The two main categories you’ll find for cat food are wet and dry. Choosing between the two types depends mostly on your cat’s preference and their current health status. To learn more about these types of food, their pros, and cons, check out our short breakdown.

1. Wet Food

Essentially, wet food gets its name from its texture. These types of cat food are either mashed or in chunks, and some may have sauce that adds flavor and nutritional value.

Because they are made from moist, wet ingredients, this type of food tends to have stronger smells than kibble. Usually, companies that produce wet cat food enhance their products’ smell with fish and other pungent ingredients to make them more appealing to cats.

2. Dry Food

The other obvious type of cat food is dry food or kibble. Let's explore the pros and cons of this type.

The Different Types of Dry Cat Food

The types of dry cat food are categorized based on a cat’s age or health status. By making sure you’ve got the right type of dry cat food for your feline, you can be sure they're getting the nutrition they need to meet their specific needs.

Here’s a low down on some of the types of dry cat food you might find:

1. Kitten Food

Kittens have different nutritional needs compared to adult cats. Generally, cats under 1 year of age need to consume more calories, fats, and proteins in order to meet the demand of their growth and development.

Dry food for kittens is usually formulated to be significantly heavier in terms of caloric value compared to what’s usually given to adult cats. Feeding an adult cat kitten kibble could turn out to be problematic as they will pack on extra weight as a result of the high caloric value.

2. Adult Cat Food

This is the most common type of dry cat food you’ll find and is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of grown cats 1 year and above. There are a few very well-known brands of adult cat food, but there are also a few smaller companies that sell unbranded or repackaged bags of adult cat food. As some of the most affordable cat food choices on the market, some pet owners opt for typical adult cat food for kittens and special needs cats.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that cat kibble might not always be the best choice especially if the feline you’re caring for has specific nutritional needs.

3. Senior Cat Food

Senior cats have very specific nutritional needs. As cats age, they become predisposed to a variety of health conditions that need to be addressed or prevented with the food they eat.

For senior cats, specifically formulated dry food helps prevent dehydration which is a high risk for older felines. This can help prevent urinary blockage as well as renal failure.

A cat is considered elderly when it reaches the age of 10. By this time, it would be in your pet’s best interest to be switched to a senior cat dry food formulation in order to keep them in the best possible condition.

4. Urinary Care Cat Food

When we say that urinary health is a common problem for cats, we mean it. In fact, it’s become such a widespread problem that companies have now come out with urinary care cat food options to help prevent and manage a variety of urinary problems in felines.

Kibble options that are labelled ‘urinary care’ help provide cats with enough moisture to maintain proper hydration. These formulations also typically don’t absorb a lot of moisture once ingested, so your cat shouldn't lose essential hydration even after they eat the kibble.

While urinary care cat food is often recommended for cats that have already had a history of urinary tract infections or other renal problems, there’s no harm in putting a healthy adult cat on a diet of urinary care cat food.

Advice on Looking for the Best Dry Cat Food

So you’re sure you want to put your cat on a diet of dry food, but you’re not exactly certain how to pick the good choices from the ones that could potentially harm its health. No problem – here are a few questions you should ask before making a purchase to help guarantee your feline’s wellness.

1. Is It Age Appropriate?

The first thing you should ask yourself when considering a specific cat food choice is whether or not it’s suitable for your cat’s age. As we previously discussed, cats of different ages have varying needs. Choosing dry cat food that’s intended for your cat’s age group will help guarantee that these needs are properly met.

2. Does It Satisfy Nutritional Needs?

Cats’ nutritional needs are mostly protein, fats, and calcium, and micronutrients. Reading the labels on your chosen food should help you determine whether or not these specific nutritional needs are met.

As a general rule, you may want to avoid choices that incorporate a large amount of fad ingredients that don’t really do much for your cat’s health and wellness. For instance, a lot of manufacturers have come out with kibble that incorporates “meal” which is basically a mishmash of carbohydrate rich ingredients that cat’s don’t actually need.

These cat food choices often fall short of cats’ needs. So while they might satiate your pet’s hunger, there’s no guarantee that they will meet nutritional requirements on a molecular level. That said, cat’s that are put on diets that incorporate just this type of kibble can be prone to different kinds of nutritional deficiencies.

3. Does It Meet Dietary Restrictions?

Some cats – especially those that have already had medical issues in the past – become prone to more complications and disease if their diets aren’t properly maintained. For instance, those who have a history of urinary tract infection can experience the same multiple times over if they keep getting fed the wrong dry food.

Special formulations that take specific health conditions into consideration are best for cats with health problems. The most common conditions in cats involve the renal system, so any choice that maximizes urinary health can be a smart pick.

4. Is It Veterinarian Recommended?

Don’t be fooled by fancy packaging – sometimes, the most ideal picks for your pet could be hiding behind simplistic aesthetics. The best way to find out whether it can really be a good choice for your cat would be to check in with your vet.

You probably already head down to your vet’s clinic once a month for your cat’s routine check-up. While you’re there, you might want to ask your specialist what specific dry food they can recommend to keep your pet in the best possible shape. While they might tell you to mix it up by adding some wet food or fresh chicken breast now and again, there’s likely a few kibble picks that they can vouch for.

5. Does It Come From a Reputable Brand?

There are some pet owners who are all about saving an extra buck. Although it’s completely understandable why anyone would want to stay within a specific budget, your cat’s health should be something you’re willing to spend a little extra for.

With that, you might want to consider buying cat food only from reputable brands. Sure, those really cheap deals on repackaged or unbranded choices might seem enticing because of their insanely affordable price tags. But because you can’t be sure of their quality, it would be best to choose cat food that comes from a reputable brand so you can enjoy consumer protection.

The Top Brands for Dry Cat Food

On the topic of brands, there are quite a number of companies in the cat food market all vying for the top spot. These brands have well-established reputations among consumers, which make them a much more reliable choice if you’re looking for the best pick for your pet.

1. Purina

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Purina cat food is one of the oldest brands of cat food on the market. It started out in 1894, and has since been purchased numerous times by different enterprises. Currently, it belongs to Land O’Lakes which bought Purina in 2001.

The brand manufactures animal feed for numerous types of animals, but they are quite prominent for their cat food choices. In terms of quality, Purina is a pretty reliable brand, with very little controversy behind their formulations.

Of course, they’ve had their share of backlash from animal rights’ groups. But the brand has been able to bounce back consistently from such issues.

2. Whiskas

When it was first established in 1936, Whiskas was known in the market as Kal Kan. But as the brand grew over the years, it changed its name to Whiskas.

A sister company of Pedigree Pet Food, Whiskas is the enterprise’s specialty brand that caters specifically to cats. With that, you can expect to find a variety of cat food choices including kibble, wet food, treats, and other food items for your feline under the brand.

3. Hill’s Science Diet

The Hill’s Science Diet was established way back in 1951 by researcher Dr. Mark Morris. He started Science Diet after having met a blind man who had a seeing eye dog that was riddled with kidney disease.

Dr. Morris believed the dog was in bad shape due to poor nutrition, so he and his wife developed a dog food formulation that would guarantee optimal health for dogs. The Hill’s Science Diet Prescription Diet was then produced, and it has since been made available in 86 different countries.

The brand has also dabbled in manufacturing food for cats. What’s nice about the Hill’s Science Diet is that their products are often specially formulated to meet specific health needs for different cats.

4. Royal Canin

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Royal Canin is known for its formulations that are intended for specific cat breeds. The brand leverages the idea that different feline breeds have varying nutritional requirements, thus their line of cat food choices.

Their different breed-specific kibble formulations also have sub-formulations for specific age groups. So if you want dry cat food that’s scientifically developed to meet the age and breed of your furry friend, Royal Canin offers very precise formulations to satisfy your standards.

5. Blue Buffalo

For pet owners who want something that’s more natural and organic, Blue Buffalo could be a good choice. This brand banks on their cat food formulations that maximize healthy, natural ingredients to give your pet a diet that’s free from artificial ingredients that could be dangerous to its health.

Blue Buffalo kibble is available for cats of all ages. They also have a few choices that are specifically formulated to meet the needs of cats with unique health issues.

6. Whole Hearted

Another all-natural cat food alternative for those who want to steer clear of man-made or artificial ingredients is Whole Hearted. This brand promises to provide cats with substantial nutrition that’s both delicious and beneficial to their health.

Whole Hearted pet food offers treats, dry food, wet food, and a few other formulations that claim to be free from grain, starch, and other filler ingredients that don’t really satisfy cats’ specific nutritional needs.

The 4 Best Dry Cat Food Choices on the Market

1. Hill’s Science Diet Urinary & Hairball Control Cat Food

Because cats are particularly prone to developing a host of urinary problems, it would be best to invest in their health with dry food that doesn’t put them at further risk. That’s why the Hill’s Science Diet Urinary and Hairball Control Cat Food ranks first on our list of the best kibble for cats.

This specific formulation was designed to keep cats in optimal renal health, allowing you to achieve the peace of mind knowing your pet isn’t eating anything that could be contributing to the development of disease.

Hill’s Science Diet Urinary and Hairball Control Cat Food is the second most expensive pick on the list, second only to Fancy Feast. However, unlike Fancy Feast, this specific cat food isn’t so much a treat as it is an investment for your pet’s future health.

2. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain-Free Natural Adult Dry Cat Food

Looking for something that’s a little more on the natural side? You should probably check out Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain-Free Natural Adult Dry Cat Food. This particular formulation is packed with protein – one of the main nutritional needs of adult cats. This keeps them well-nourished and strong, allowing optimal muscle growth and health.

What sets it apart from other choices is the fact that it claims to be an evolutionary diet. This simply means that the cat food was formulated with cats’ actual needs in mind based on how they would be surviving in the wild. So it incorporates a lot of natural, real chicken and meat which it uses as its main ingredient.

3. Purina Fancy Feast Gourmet Dry Cat Food Fillet Mignon Flavor with Real Seafood and Shrimp

Fancy Feast is Purina’s sub-brand of gourmet cat food, which offers unique cat food formulations that are said to be much more palatable and appealing to cats. Their Fillet Mignon Flavor with Real Seafood and Shrimp is a solid best seller among cat lovers, and has a well-established reputation as one of the best dry food choices for picky eaters.

While it isn’t specifically formulated with renal health in mind, this specific dry food’s appeal is undeniable to cats. So if you struggle to get your cat to finish up a bowl of food, then offering this option might help turn things around.

Of course, because it is “gourmet” cat food, you should expect that it’s not quite as affordable as other picks on the list. We mostly recommend Purina Fancy Feast as an occasional treat for cats instead of as a staple food choice, especially if you’re working on a budget.

4. Purina ONE Indoor Advantage Adult Dry Cat Food

If you’re looking for affordability without sacrificing quality, this one might be the right choice. The Purina ONE Indoor Advantage Adult Dry Cat Food is a top pick for a lot of cat owners who work on a budget, but don’t want their cat’s nutrition to take a blow.

This specific food is made mainly from turkey meat, and is intended to minimize the production of hairballs. It’s also packed with protein, promising to keep your cat feeling satiated and satisfied after each serving.

Another reason why it ranks high on our list is the fact that it doesn’t use any filler ingredients. So while it does come at a pretty affordable cost, this cat kibble won’t stuff your pet with unnecessary ingredients that don’t really do much for overall health.

In Summary

It’s no secret that choosing the best dry cat food isn’t easy, especially if you think about how it affects your cat’s health. Based on what we’ve seen and read, the Hill’s Science Diet Urinary and Hairball Control Dry Cat Food is the very best investment you can make for your cat’s future. Sure, it’s not the cheapest, but because it reduces the possibility of disease, it’s definitely a choice you should try to consider.

If you think it’s not the right pick for your cat, go ahead and try any of the other three choices we’ve listed. These cat kibble formulations have been vouched for by thousands of buyers worldwide, so you can be sure they won’t disappoint you or your furry friend

The post The Best Dry Cat Food: Reviews of the 4 Healthiest Options appeared first on Choosey Cats.

Based on information gathered from surveys, only 16% of cat owners buy dry cat food for their beloved feline. Reasons for the avoidance for dry food varied, but one thing remained clear – most cat owners feel that wet food is a healthier choice for their pets. And that’s not all assumption. Studies have found that cats are particularly prone to dehydration, digestive troubles, and renal disease. So giving them food that doesn’t negatively impact the hydration in their system can help minimize these risks.

These days, it’s easy to find canned cat food for your pet but that doesn’t necessarily mean that every option you find will be the best pick for your feline friend. Differences in formulation, flavor, and form can have a significant impact on how well a specific wet cat food can satisfy your cat’s nutritional needs and his preferences.

Wondering which picks prove to be the best wet cat food on the market? We zero in on how to make the right choice, and give a few of our top picks with this comprehensive buying guide.

Quick Snapshot: The 5 Top Wet Cat Foods​

Wet Food vs Dry Food

The two main types of cat food are categorized based on their form. These are wet food and dry food. Each type comes with its own set of pros and cons, and each one may provide unique benefits for your cat, depending on his nutritional needs.

Wet Cat Food

Wet cat food can come in cans or pouches, and is either moist or wet. These come in a variety of flavors and textures and are said to be beneficial for cats because they provide necessary hydration to guarantee renal health.

Wet cat food is also particularly easy to serve because they’re typically sold in single servings that are specifically measured to meet your cat’s dietary needs for every meal. This is also why it’s not likely for a cat to become overweight when being fed wet food.

Of course, it’s not a perfect dietary solution. For starters, wet cat food can only be left out for a maximum of 20 minutes (depending on room temperature) so it might not be a good choice for buyers who frequently leave their cats at home.

Another thing is that wet cat food tends to be more expensive than kibble. So for buyers who are trying to stay within budget, wet cat food choices might not always be the most practical choice.

Dry Cat Food

Accessible, affordable, and convenient, dry cat food is often the choice for pet owners who want something that they can leave out while they head out to work or run errands. This specific form of cat food is significantly more affordable than wet cat food, sold by the kilo making them easier to stock at home.

Dry cat food can last for several hours out without changing quality or spoiling, which makes it the ideal choice if you want food that can be left for your cat without having to worry about it going rotten too soon after you’ve walked out the door. It’s also much less messy than wet food, so you can feel assured that your cat won’t make a mess while you’re gone.

There are a few points to ponder though if you’re thinking of buying dry food for your cat. For starters, it’s not essentially ideal when you consider the fact that cats are prone to renal disease. Dry kibble can sap the digestive system of necessary moisture, making it easy for cats to develop problems like urinary tract infections and renal failure in the long run.

Another thing is that when it comes to nutritional value, wet food is often formulated to meet a cat’s specific dietary needs. On top of that, kibble tends to be packed with carbohydrates which can easily cause your cat to gain more weight than what’s healthy or necessary.

What Are the Different Types of Wet Food?

Although they might all look like typical cans on the outside, pop open any two cans of wet cat food and you’ll find completely different formulations. These foods come in a variety of recipes, textures, and wetness, so to speak. And while it might not seem like such a big consideration, these differences can change the way your cat enjoys his food.

Pate

The pate is one of the most common forms of wet cat food. Basically, this type of food resembles a fine paste with an even, often thick consistency. However there are some formulations that are creamier and softer.

Pate wet food is easy to eat because it doesn’t have any whole chunks or hard pieces that could require chewing. For that reason, pate is what’s best for cats that have just undergone surgery, those with special needs or conditions that affect the integrity of the oral cavity or jaw, or older cats that have difficulty eating.

To give you a better idea of what a pate should look like, you should be able to spread it evenly across a surface.

Shreds

Shredded wet cat food closely resembles the meat it comes from and is often suspended in light gravy. Shreds can vary in length and thickness, but often follows the striations of the animal muscle where it comes from.

There are shredded options that are suspended in a light, savory broth. These choices are often much finer in texture, and are intended to be served as a topper for other wet or dry food choices.

Chunks

Wet cat food that comes in chunks are served in either a thick or light gravy base. These choices use pieces of meat in a variety of sizes and shapes. The smallest chunks are finely minced and are very small, making them easy to manipulate in the mouth.

There are also larger chunks called morsels which a cat might be able to consume one piece at a time, given its size.

Flakes

Flaked wet cat food comes in the form of long flat pieces. These are served in a light broth or gravy, similar to what you would find inside a can of tuna flakes.

This particular wet food texture is ideal for fish and chicken because it maintains the integrity of the meat, keeping it as close to its natural form as possible. There are also flaked sides in broth, which are essentially smaller and lighter, intended as toppers for other forms of cat food.

Sliced

These wet cat foods resemble chunks, but come in the form of elongated slices. They’re most commonly served in light gravy, and can be used as toppers for other wet foods or dry foods.

Combination

Some brands consider the fact that some cats can be picky when it comes to their preferences in texture. With that, combination wet cat foods have become another option on the market. Most often, these foods use pate underneath, which is topped with chunks of protein and gravy for added variety.

Advice on Choosing the Best Wet Foods

While most choices might offer the right nutritional value for your feline, it’s important to consider your pet’s specific preferences and needs in order to guarantee that you’ve chosen the right wet food. Take these bits of advice when making a purchase to help ensure the best pick for your pet.

Specific Health Needs

Most wet foods are formulated for adult cats without any special health considerations. But there are some that might be more beneficial especially if your cat has unique wellness requirements.

A good example of this would be wet cat food that’s formulated for renal health. Some cats that have had a history of conditions like urinary tract infection are particularly prone to developing renal disease. So keeping them on a diet of dry food could increase the risk for renal failure. Some wet food formulations help increase hydration and incorporate ingredients that enhance renal health.

Another type of special wet food takes into account the possibility for hair balls. With that, some formulations help optimize digestive functioning to minimize the size and frequency of hair balls.

Your Cat’s Age

As your cat grows and develops, his nutritional needs will change. Kittens in general need more protein and calories because their bodies require the extra fuel to permit growth. As they grow into adults, cats will require a diet that mostly contains protein because cat’s muscles require it as a building block to ensure lean muscle mass. This also limits the chance for a cat to gain weight because protein isn’t as easily stored as fat.

Then, once your cat enters old age, he’ll need more micronutrients and vitamins in order to promote optimal health even in the face of potential disease. Make sure you consider the age of your cat before you buy into any wet cat food so you can be sure that it meets his specific nutritional needs for his current developmental stage.

Nutritional Profile and Intended Use

As we discussed in the previous text, some forms of wet cat food aren’t formulated to be taken as a stand-alone meal. “Toppers” are intended to be used as enhancers for other types of cat food, bumping up the nutritional profile for dry food or altering taste and texture to meet your cat’s preferences.

Make sure the cat food you’re buying is actually formulated as a meal in and of itself. Toppers, while they can be useful in some cases, don’t provide a complete nutritional profile, so they may not meet your cat’s dietary requirements.

Avoid Synthetic Meats

These days, manufacturers have come up with ways to mimic animal meat and use this as a substitute for both cat and dog food. The issue here is that synthetic animal products don’t provide the same nutritional value, and might even cause disease and toxicity in the long run.

The USDA regulates the meat in food for pets in order to help pet owners make healthy choices. To make sure your chosen product contains organic ingredients, it’s important to look for the USDA seal. As a general rule, any cat food that has this seal is at least 95% organic.

What Are the Top Brands of Wet Cat Food?

Purina Fancy Feast

Purina has been in the market as early as 1894 when it was established as a small family owned pet food factory. Today, it’s owned by Land O’Lakes and represents one of the most prominent pet food brands in the world.

They have lots of different kinds of cat food, but probably their best wet cat food is Fancy Feast. This sub-brand within the company specializes in formulating food choices that are unique and exceptionally palatable for cats. Of course, they can be slightly more expensive. But in terms of nutritional value and taste, Fancy Feast is one of the best choices.

Royal Canin

Royal Canin leverages the idea that different breeds of cats have varying nutritional needs. So what sets the brand apart from others in the market is the fact that they have unique cat food choices that are specific to breeds of cats, giving your pet wet food that is said to meet very precise dietary requirements.

Hill’s Science Diet

Hill’s Science Diet is one of the most trusted brands in the market, made popular by their Prescription series of cat and dog food. Basically, Hill’s Prescription Diet follows very strict formulation recipes that make their wet food products ideal for pets with specific health needs. From urinary care, to senior cat nutrition, to everything in between, there’s bound to be a Hill’s Prescription Science Diet for it.

Blue Buffalo

Blue Buffalo is one of the few brands of cat food that actually fulfils its promise of natural and organic ingredients for the benefit of your beloved feline. The brand uses natural animal and plant ingredients with limited pesticides, artificial ingredients, flavorings, and colorings to give your pet nutrition that mimics what it might be eating if it were out in the wild.

Whiskas

Whiskas is yet another highly commercialized cat food brand available in the worldwide market. The brand offers a range of cat food choices, but mostly focuses on different age groups, allowing buyers access to different cat food options that help meet pet cats’ needs at different phases of their lives.

Nutro

Another all-natural choice would be Nutro. This cat food brand is fairly new to the market but has made quite a strong impression on buyers because of its palatable formulations that appeals to most cats. Plus the fact that it uses organic ingredients, it’s easily a top choice for most cat owners.

Top 5 Best Wet Cat Food Choices Reviewed

1. Hill’s Science Diet Urinary & Hairball Control Cat Food

There are a lot of choices when it comes to wet cat food, so it wasn’t easy to crown a single one as the top choice. But when you consider all the factors, it’s easy to see that the Hill’s Science Diet Urinary & Hairball Control Cat Food is the ultimate wet cat food on the market. The main consideration here is that it aims to resolve two of the most common issues cats face – hairballs and urinary problems.

The formulation is specifically developed to cater to adult cats that might be prone to urinary issues. Containing just the right amount of magnesium, the Hill’s Science Diet Urinary & Hairball Control Cat Food eliminates the risk of a variety of health conditions that might result from a poor diet.

Aside from that, this wet cat food also contains natural fiber that doesn’t interfere with your cat’s digestion. This helps make it easier to push hairballs out the back end instead of hurling them out from your cat’s mouth and onto your kitchen floor.

2. Fancy Feast Grilled Seafood Collection Wet Cat Food

If you were thinking of getting your cat some food that he won’t be able to resist, then you should check out the Fancy Feast Grilled Seafood Collection. With a variety of choices, this bundle gives you a number of different recipes to help satisfy your cat’s cravings.

Each can is a different flavor, boasting some of Fancy Feast’s most popular grilled seafood recipes that cats have been proven to love. Of course, it’s probably a little more expensive than other wet cat food choices. But it is a sure-fire way to get your cat to finish his food. Plus, buying it in a bundle helps ease down the cost, which is why you’ll probably want to check out the collection instead of buying per can.

3. Nutro Perfect Portions Grain Free Multi-Pack

Some cats can be picky when it comes to textures of wet food. But through in depth research, the Nutro brand was able to come up with the perfect pate texture that cats are sure to love. That’s why their Nutro Perfect Portions Grain Free Multi-Pack has become so popular among pet parents.

This perfect pate comes packed with lots of protein to give your adult cat the nutrition he needs in order to achieve that healthy, lean physicality that’s ideal for fully grown house cats. What’s more, the brand promises that each recipe is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, giving your cat holistic nutrition that won’t cause problems in the long run.

4. Friskies Meaty Bits Variety Pack

Does your cat prefer the chunk wet food texture? The Friskies Meaty Bits Variety Pack can be the perfect pick. This bundle offers some of the best recipes from the Friskies brand, each one boasting the ideal morsel size served in thick savory gravy.

Each different flavor combines the perfect ratio of gravy and meat chunks, giving your pet a filling meal that doesn’t just satisfy his hunger, but also meets his nutritional needs.

Another reason why it’s such a steal is the fact that it meets all the essential dietary requirements of both adult cats and kittens. So if you’ve got cats of different ages, a single bundle can be enough to see them through a few weeks’ worth of meals.

5. Purina PRO Plan Focus Urinary Tract Health Formula

Since urinary health is such a big issue among house cats, Purina has also come out with their own formulation that aims to be just as good as the Hill’s Science Diet. Many buyers have found that the Purina PRO Plan Focus Urinary Tract Health Formula might just be a good substitute for the Science Diet formulation if you want the same benefits minus the steep cost.

Sodium wise though, it might not be quite as ideal as Science Diet since it contains a bit more salt which is one of the things to look out for if you’re trying to care for a cat with renal issues. Without comparison though, this specific formulation still doesn’t contain quite enough salt to cause a flare up, so it’s definitely a better choice than most if you’re hoping to restore urinary health in your cat.

Sure, it doesn’t quite match up to the urinary care and protection that Hill’s Science Diet offers. But when it all comes right down to it, this specific wet food does perform much better for renal health compared to many other choices on the market. Plus the fact that it doesn’t cost as much, it’s definitely a budget friendly option that can work well for your cat’s overall wellness.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a new way to spice up your cat’s everyday diet, or if you’re hoping to keep your furry friend in tip-top shape, then it’s probably a good idea to scavenge the market for the best wet cat food. There are a lot of choices out there, and it was tough to weigh the pros and cons, but when it all comes right down to it, the Hill’s Science Diet Urinary and Hairball Control Cat Food comes out on top as the ultimate wet cat food.

There are a few other worthy picks though, so be sure to check out our four other recommendations if the Hill’s Science Diet just doesn’t do it for you. At the end of the day, these top 5 picks provide just the right nutrition for your pet without sacrificing taste and texture, so you can be sure your feline will enjoy each and every serving.

The post Best Wet Cat Food: Reviews 2018 appeared first on Choosey Cats.

So, you’ve adopted a new little feline into your family – good on you! Having a cute little kitten pouncing around your home can be a heart-warming sight to behold. But beyond the cuteness and fuzzy warm feelings, adopting a new kitten comes with a whole lot of responsibility. One of the most important things you need to take into account is their health.

Cats in general are prone to many different health conditions as they grow older. But making sure that they get the right nutrition while they’re young can help prevent a variety of problems that might arise in the future. So while your cat is a little kitten, it’s up to you to make the right dietary choices for him in order to lower the risk of disease.

There are lots of different options on the market, but which one is the best kitten food for your little guy? Discover the ins and outs of kitten food and find out our top picks with this comprehensive guide and review.

Quick Look: The 6 Best Kitten Food Options​

Why Do Kittens Need Different Food from Adult Cats?

Just like human babies that survive mostly on breast milk and baby food during their first few years, so do kittens require a different diet compared to their adult cat counterparts. The main reason behind this is the fact that little cats still need to grow and develop. You’ll notice this when you read labels on cat food – choices intended for kittens should state “for growth and development.” Those for adult cats are formulated for “maintenance.”

As kittens grow older, their nutritional needs change. By the time they’re adults, you can completely switch them over to an adult cat diet to better meet these changing dietary requirements.

What are the Nutritional Requirements for Kittens?

A major difference between the dietary needs of kittens and grown cats is protein to fat ratio. As regulated by the FDA, kittens’ food needs to contain at least 22% protein and 8% fat. For adults, the suggested protein and fat content is at 18% and 5% respectively. The higher concentration in kitten food helps support its growth, giving it the foundation to build lean muscle mass.

In terms of caloric value, kitten food also needs to have quite a little extra compared to adult cat food. This is because kittens tend to play more and spend more energy compared to grown felines. But because they also have much smaller stomachs, kittens need to get enough calories even with their smaller eating capacity. So food that’s densely packed with macronutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats can give just the right amount of calories even if a kitten eats just a small amount.

In terms of micronutrients, kittens also require a lot more than adult cats. Substances like phosphorus and calcium are essential for cats to help support bone growth and organ health. In adult cats, an excess of micronutrients might actually be harmful, as they can concentrate in the urine and cause kidney disease which is fairly common in older felines.

Wet vs Dry Food for Kittens

There has been a long-standing debate among cat owners on whether dry or wet food is best for kittens. Fortunately, there are a lot of regulations in place that help protect consumers from unscrupulous products and brands. So what you see on a kitten food’s label is probably exactly what it contains.

In terms of nutritional value, the labels don’t lie. With that, it’s safe to assume that both wet and dry food can meet the specific dietary needs of your kitten, as long as you make sure to read the labels. The only major distinction between these two forms of cat food is that wet food keeps your kitten’s hydration intact.

Keep in mind that most cats are prone to kidney disease as a result of poor maintenance of ideal pH balance. This occurs when you give them food that saps their system of necessary hydration. Experts suggest that it’s ideal to reinforce the renal system as early as possible in order to reduce the risk for kidney disease as your cat grows.

Then again, kibble is always more convenient. Dry cat pellets can be left out for hours without having to worry about spoilage. So if you’re a working pet parent and you need to leave your cat home for extended hours, dry food might seem like a practical choice.

It’s recommended that cat owners try to interchange between dry and wet food to get the best of both worlds. So if you need to leave your kitten home, you can leave out dry food. But as long as you’re home and available to keep an eye on your pet, it’s ideal to serve wet food.

Food to Avoid Feeding Your Kitten

Some pet owners like to dabble in making home-made food for kittens. In most cases, this might be the best choice especially if you spend some time studying what’s good for growing felines. Aside from that though, you might also want to stay in the know regarding the foods you should avoid giving your kitten at all costs.

1. Onions and Garlic​

In a typical human diet, onions and garlic help add flavor to our favorite savory meals. But given to a kitten, these ingredients can cause damage to red blood cells, and consequently lead to anemia. In larger amounts, they can be toxic and cause weakness, general malaise, vomiting, loss of appetite, and blood in your kitten’s stool or urine.

In case your kitten accidentally ingests copious amounts of garlic or onion, be sure to send him straight to the vet’s clinic.

2. Raw Meat, Its Bones, and Raw Eggs

Domesticated cats have come a long way from how they once were in the wild. So although you might think that a diet of raw meat, fish, bones, and anything else that’s raw works well for wild cats, they might not be the best choice for your domesticated feline.

Cats that live mostly indoors and that are fed mostly store-bought cat food will have different digestive bacterial flora than those in the wild. So their stomachs might not be prepared to process raw food.

Another potential problem here is that raw food can contain things like E. Coli, which can be fatal when untreated. When it comes to bones, larger ones can be difficult to crush and chew, so they become a choking hazard for house cats.

If you’re interested in making home-made food for your kitten, make sure to avoid raw meats and egg. If you still want to use them though, you should make sure that they’re cleaned thoroughly, and that you cook them slightly to kill off any existing bacteria.

3. Chocolate and Coffee

Chocolate and coffee both contain caffeine – a substance that’s known to increase blood pressure and heart rate. When taken in copious amounts, this can cause changes in your kitten’s heart rate and blood pressure, leading to an arrhythmia or palpitations.

Chocolate can also be doubly dangerous because it contains theobromine. This stimulant can cause seizures and tremors, and might even result to heart problems in the long run. Be sure to avoid these two ingredients – and any others that might contain caffeine or theobromine – when preparing food for your kitten.

4. Dairy

If you thought you could give your kitten some store-bought, fresh cow’s milk, you thought wrong. While Tom – one of the most iconic cats from our favorite childhood cartoons – seemed to love his fair share of fresh milk, experts actually recommend against giving fresh dairy to your little kittens or adult cats.

A fact many of us don’t seem to know is that most cats are born lactose intolerant. Thus, giving dairy in any of its forms could cause diarrhrea. Once a kitten develops diarrhea, it becomes very easy to suffer dehydration. An early insult to a cat’s renal system could make it particularly prone to kidney disease in the future. What’s more, diarrhea can be fatal especially because it progresses quickly.

How Often Should You Feed a Kitten

According to experts, kittens should be fed at least three times a day. This should help it receive the right amount of calories in a day in order to meet his dietary needs for growth. So one meal in the morning, one in the afternoon, and one in the evening should be sufficient for proper growth and development.

Once your kitten reaches at least 6 months of age, it’s possible to feed it just twice a day. This should help prevent your cat from becoming overweight, and will prepare it for the shift in dietary needs for older cats.

Common Health Issues with Kittens and How the Right Food Can Help

Because of their small, often sensitive little bodies, kittens are prone to a variety of health conditions that might not commonly affect adult cats. Many of these conditions can be simple, but often turn fatal when they’re poorly addressed. Fortunately, certain changes to or aspects of your kitten’s diet can easily help you resolve many of these problems with little fuss.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea in kittens can signal a variety of problems. But if you notice that your cat is experiencing diarrhea after a recent change – most commonly in his diet – you might want to consider how a cat adjusts to new food.

A kitten that has been fed the same kibble or wet food for several months will have a stomach that’s adjusted to that specific formulation. If you abruptly change your kitten’s diet, it’s possible to induce diarrhea because of the new formulation being introduced into your cat’s gut.

To resolve the matter, you may want to revert back to your kitten’s original diet for 2-3 days, and then slowly incorporate the new food into his bowl. Start with ¼ of the new food mixed with ¾ of the old food. Then work your way towards a complete change by adjusting the ratio slightly as the days go by. This will help your kitten’s system adjust to the new food with a lower risk of diarrhea.

Upper Respiratory Infection

Although older cats are equally prone to upper respiratory tract infections, kittens are particularly at risk. When a kitten develops an infection, it’s easy to diagnose by way of a runny nose, watery eyes, and a lack of appetite.

Fortunately, problems with the upper respiratory tract can be easily resolved with lots of care, water, medications, and a proper diet. At this time, you may want to switch your cat to wet food to be delivered from a syringe, as they will most likely refuse to eat on their own. Plus, wet food will provide extra hydration that also helps with recovery.

Upper respiratory tract infections in kitten usually ease up within 1-2 weeks, as long as they get enough rest, medication, food, and hydration.

Intestinal Parasites

Kittens should be dewormed regularly to get rid of intestinal parasites. In case you miss a scheduled deworming and find that your kitten is showing signs of a parasitic infestation of the digestive system, it’s vital that you seek urgent medical attention as this can be fatal.

On top of that, it would be helpful to keep your kitten on a high fiber diet to make it easier to flush out any parasites in its gut. It would be even better if you could give your kitten ground pumpkin seeds which are proven to help cats with digestive problems.

If you want to be doubly sure, you might want to check in with your cat’s doctor to get a professional opinion on the most ideal vet recommended kitten food for your little feline’s specific case.

Advice on Buying Kitten Food

Read the Label

Remember that kittens need more protein, fat, and calories compared to their older, adult counterparts. Read the labels before you make a purchase and be sure you’re choosing something that’s at least 22% protein, and 8% fat.

Go Organic

Research has found that organic pet food might be slightly more beneficial than those that are made from non-organic ingredients. Pet food formulations that make use of real animal meat and that contain as close to zero additives, flavorings, colorings, and other synthetic ingredients as possible are closer to natural and provide better nutrition. Cat food that’s at least 95% organic will have a seal from the USDA for your guidance. So be sure to keep an eye out for that stamp.

Add Variety

Your kitten will start establishing preferences as soon as it can start to take solids. So add some variety into its diet by purchasing different types of cat food in small amounts. Once you notice a preference, you can go ahead and stock up on what your kitten likes best to make sure he finishes up his food every time it’s served.

Know Your Brands

There are some cat food brands out there that are just better than others – and that’s not all subjective. To guarantee quality for their consumers, the best kitten food brands undergo AAFCO trials which help ensure the safety and quality of cat food. You can read more about these trials here.

The Top 6 Kitten Food Reviews

1. Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers

You’d be surprised how well kitten mixers can be at providing your cat optimal nutrition. Take Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers for example which we find to be the best frozen kitten food. Intended as a topper for your kitten’s usual diet, these morsels are packed with 36% protein and 26% fat, meaning each serving can satisfy your kitten’s needs and more.

Aside from being packed with the right macronutrients, these freeze dried toppers are also full of micronutrients that help keep a kitten healthy from the outside in. Plus, these also make it insanely easy to mix up your kitten’s diet by offering it a variety of textures as a base and then adding the toppers as a pop of texture and crunch.

2. Purina Fancy Feast Classic Pate Wet Kitten Food

What better way to start your kitten out on a solid diet than with a Fancy Feast? Known to be one of the best canned kitten food, the brand leverages appealing formulations for cats of all ages. Their savory recipes are often a big hit with cats, so you can be sure your little kitten will gobble down every last bite when a Fancy Feast is served.

This particular formulation was developed specifically for growing cats, so it gives just the right amounts of protein, fat, and calories in order to meet those daily needs.

3. Iams Proactive Health Healthy Kitten

For pet owners who want a reliable dry food to leave behind with their little kitten while they’re away at work, we think the Iams Proactive Health Healthy Kitten kibble is the best dry kitten food there is.

Made with real chicken and zero fillers, this formulation promises to provide the right amount of protein for your growing cat. What makes it a great pick is the fact that it also provides the right micronutrients to support eye health, cognitive development, a strong immune system, and healthy digestion.

4. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Food for Cats

While it might not be specifically for kittens, the contents of Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Food for Cats might very well be one of the better picks for your growing feline. With up to 45% protein and 25% fat, this particular formulation works best as a topper. But you can be sure that when your kitten finishes his serving of this particular cat food, he’s consumed all the protein and fat he needs in order to sustain healthy growth.

5. Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Formula 

Another top pick from Purina, ONE Healthy Kitten Formula, a dry food that's packed with nutrition from real fish, poultry, and meat, and boasts a balanced formulation to keep your kitten in top health. It also comes in several other recipes that are developed to give your kitten the right care for his specific dietary and nutritional needs.

Finally, the Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Formula is one of the cheapest on our list. So if you’re looking for quality nutrition at a reasonable cost, this might be the right choice for you.

6. Purina Pro Plan Focus Wet Kitten Food

The final pick on our list is Purina’s Pro Plan Focus Wet Kitten Food. Made with a similar formulation to their dry kibble, this specific wet kitten food boasts a complete nutrient profile to keep your little feline healthy and satisfied. The wet formulation also helps keep kidney health intact, making it a great starter food if you feel that your cat might be predisposed to kidney disease.

The only reason why we couldn’t rank it any higher is because of its price tag, but if you’ve got a little extra to spare, then it might be a good pick.

In Summary

It’s important to start your kitten out on the right foot when it comes to his health and wellness – so be sure to make the right choice. The best kitten food based on our standards is the Take Nature’s Variety Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers. There are a lot of other great choices too though, so be sure to scan through our recommendations to find a pick that’s perfect for your little kitty.

The post The Best Kitten Food & Nutrition (Our Top 6 Picks) appeared first on Choosey Cats.

As cats get older their lifestyle changes. They gradually start to enjoy being indoors more than roaming the world. Just like us humans, their health also starts to change. While a lot of senior cats go on with their life problem-free, others get serious ailments that can affect the quality of their lives. This can be avoided by feeding them the best cat food for senior cats.

What To Look For When Buying Cat Food For Senior Cats

When your cat reaches their senior years, it is important to adjust their diet to help with any health issues that may arise. When switching your cat over to a new diet always make sure to choose the best foods to help maintain their health.

Always read the label when buying cat food. When a label only states the product is made with meat ingredients without any reference to what type of meat is used, it should be completely avoided. Cats need protein which can be found in food such as tuna, lamb, chicken, beef or turkey.​

Cat food containing fillers are high in carbohydrates. Cats don’t need a lot of carbohydrates as it could be bad for their health. Try and choose food that has less than 10% carbohydrates.

Vitamins and minerals are also a must in cat food. Certain vitamins help prevent age-related health issues. Taurine is also considered as essential.

Cats need to stay hydrated. By choosing wet cat food, you help them consume the water they need to help sustain their kidney functions. Cats, in general, do not drink enough water. Therefore food containing water is essential. By feeding your older cat wet food, you help with dental problems. Older cats tend to develop sensitive teeth or gums.

There are small differences between adult cat food and senior cat food. One difference that is mainly present is that senior cat food contains higher protein levels.

Try and buy dry and wet cat food and mix the two together to receive the benefits of dry and wet cat foods.

Find cat food that is high with omega fatty acids as well as vitamins. This should be a part of their diet from a young age to help delay or prevent health issues as they age.

Nutritional Requirements Of Senior Cats

For a cat to maintain a healthy life, they need a certain amount of nutrients daily.

Cats are carnivores and require a protein-rich food while carbohydrates should be kept to a minimum. Their daily ingestion values should be around 50-60% of protein, 5-10% of carbohydrates and 30-50% of fat. When these daily nutrients are maintained, they will have a healthier life altogether.

Here's an example of a typical Macro breakdown for older cats. This is a guideline, and it's always best to check with your vet first:​

Connection Between Senior Cat Health Issues And Nutrition

As a cat gets older, their body starts to show signs of health issues. These health issues can be addressed by supplying them with the correct food and the right amounts of nutrients.

• Dental Disease

When cats start getting dental issues, they suffer from severe pain which causes them to start losing their appetites and eat much less than they usually would. This in turn leads to major weight loss in your elder cat.

• Hyperthyroidism

When a cat gets hyperthyroidism, their thyroid gland produces high amounts of thyroid hormones, which leads to an extremely exaggerated appetite, but even with the amounts of food consumed they still tend to lose more weight. It can also cause vomiting, diarrhea and increased thirst. The cat may also urinate in larger volumes.

• Arthritis

Since arthritis restricts a cat’s movement due to pain, they are more likely to sleep more and be less playful. It is also known to be a painful disease, which reduces your cat’s quality of life.

• Diabetes

The risk of diabetes in cats are higher when a cat is overweight or inactive. When diabetes is detected in its early stages, it can be treated with insulin. If insulin treatment does not help to stop diabetes early on, your cat may need to obtain insulin injections for the rest of their life.

• Heart Diseases

Older cats have a higher risk of heart disease. There is a vast amount of heart diseases older cats can get. Cardiomyopathy is the most common heart disease cats get. No matter what type of heart disease your cat has, it will almost always end with congestive heart failure (CHF). Congestive heart failure means their heart will not be able to pump blood to all areas of their body.

• Renal Failure

Older cats with kidney problems seem to be more prevalent than younger cats with the disease. The disease can cause severe damage to their body.

Kidneys act as the body’s filtration system, which removes waste products from the blood. The waste then gets disposed of through urine. When renal failure occurs the ability of the kidneys to remove these waste products become impaired. This can lead to azotemia, which is known as the build-up of these waste products in the blood. When renal failure occurs, your cat may show symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, low appetite, higher urine volumes and an unquenchable thirst.

Some senior cats may be plagued by one of these diseases whereas other senior cats may have multiple, which makes treating or identifying these diseases quite difficult. These diseases can be aided through the right diet fit for the diseases your cat might have developed. By working closely with your vet, you can determine the correct type of diet for your senior cat.

How Much To Feed Senior Cats

As cats grow older, they may start to be inactive, and their metabolism also starts to slow down. This means they gain weight easily by eating as much as they used to. This can be avoided by ensuring they get the right amount of food to fit their new metabolism speed, while also receiving the needed proteins and vitamins.

All senior cat foods have a recommendation on the amount of food a senior cat should eat, but since every cat is different, it is important for you as the owner to observe their eating patterns and ensure that they are not overindulging on treats and snacks.

The 5 Best Foods For Senior Cats

1. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Feline Gastrointestinal Canned Cat Food

Older cats with sensitive stomachs will truly appreciate this food. It contains higher levels of calories, which compensates for the reduced amount of food eaten by an older cat due to the sensitive stomach. It is also considered as the best cat food for older cats that vomit thanks to its unique formula. This food also contains high levels of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for older cats.

2. Waggers Tendermoist Cat Food

Waggers cat food has a small variety of moist cat food and also has a semi-moist cat food. Its main ingredient is chicken, which is high in protein. The high protein content found in this food can help to keep your cat healthy. It also contains probiotics to assist with improving the body’s ability to absorb the nutrients that are found in the food.

While this food is good for senior cats, it is important to note that high-protein options are not ideal for cats with renal failure and other kidney problems.

3. Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance Cat Food

This soft dry cat food for older cats is made from wholesome ingredients. It is rich in protein and also contains a number of nutrients that are extracted from vegetables and fruit. This means that, in addition to nutrients, the food will also offer your important cat antioxidants that can help to fight against free radical damage.

This food is grain free and designed to be tasty for older cats, while also ensuring they can obtain the nutrients their body needs to stay healthy.

4. Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Aging 12+

This food is specifically designed for senior cats and is considered the best cat food for older cats by many people. It is flavorful to raise the appetite of older cats. The food is recommended for older cats with bad teeth as it is wet food, which is easily ingested and reduces the amount of pain inflicted when chewing.

It contains fatty acids that aid your cat’s joints. The food contains a low amount of phosphorus to reduce the effect the food has on the cat’s renal health. For this reason, this cat food is also an appropriate option for cats with kidney problems.

5. Hill’s Science Diet Indoor Dry Cat Food

Hill’s Science diet is a top rated senior cat food. It is specifically designed for cats of 11 years and older. The food includes nutrients that support the cat’s joints, heart, eyes, and their kidneys. The food is clinically proven to be effective, healthy and safe for senior cats. It contains vitamin C and E, amino acids, corn gluten, and whole grain wheat. This food does not contain any type of artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors.

In Summary

Cats are susceptible to numerous diseases when they grow old. One of the most important aspects of ensuring your cat can live their golden years in a healthy and pain-free way is to ensure you feed them the best cat food for senior cats. The Hill’s Science Diet is a clinically-proven formula that has been developed especially for senior cats, providing them with the right nutrients their bodies need to be healthy at an old age and to ward off disease.

The post Best Cat Food for Older Cats (Senior Cat Diet & Nutrition) appeared first on Choosey Cats.

Noticing that your cat is having some trouble taking a poop? It’s probably a bad case of constipation. But just as you might find it a little unsettling to squat with no returns, your cat might feel unhappy and uncomfortable when put in the same situation. Plus, chronic constipation in cats may point to other problems that might make you out to be a poor pet parent.

But before you jump to conclusions and beat yourself up over the issue, it’s important to point out that there are easy solutions against kitty constipation. For starters, giving him the right food might help ease the potty problems and make it easier to respond to each rising bowel movement.

Hoping to help your cat with those litter box visits? Find out everything you need to know about choosing the best cat food for constipation with this complete buying guide and our reviews.

What Causes Constipation in Cats?

First things first – what exactly causes constipation in cats? Well, the possible reasons are vast and varied. But for the most part, you can probably narrow it down to one of these:

Poor Diet​

Cats that eat the wrong type of food will often develop constipation. For instance, food that saps their system of hydration can make their feces very hard, lacking the ideal consistency that should make it easy to pass through their system. For the most part, foods that absorb moisture once inside your cat’s body are the culprit. More often than not, we can point our fingers at dry kibble which works almost like a sponge, especially when it’s high in sodium.​

But beware – even wet food can cause constipation. Wet food – or any food for that matter – can cause constipation when the formulation is too rich. How so? Too many micronutrients, too many different kinds of proteins, too many carbohydrates that exceed your cat’s daily dietary needs will simply be flushed out of the system. With that, feces can become concentrated and hard, making them much more difficult to pass.

Excessive Grooming​

Cats groom themselves to clean their skin, maintain their fur, and manage their stress. Domesticated cats spend much more time grooming themselves compared to wild cats because they don’t have as much time or space for physical activity like hunting and play. While grooming up to 50% of the day might be normal, excessive grooming could cause a cat to ingest more hair than their bodies can manage.​

With an excess of hair in their digestive system, it becomes easier for clumps to form and harden their feces. Because most hair is pushed out through the back end along with other waste matter, too much hair could cause constipation especially when clumps become too big.

Ingesting Non-Food Items​

​Curiosity constipated the cat. As naturally inquisitive and exploratory creatures, cats will eat almost anything as their way of discovering the world around them. So it’s no surprise that some cats will eat things like string, rocks, and other small objects. Sometimes, they end up eating these non-food objects because they think it's food.

In some cases, cats might also eat bones from their food, especially if its owner chooses to serve fresh and raw meat. Unfortunately, there are quite a lot of pet owners who think it’s okay to serve cats chicken or beef with the bones still in it. These objects, when ingested, can’t be digested. So they can cause blockages that make it difficult for cats to pass anything during a bowel movement.

Obesity​

​Recent studies suggest that there might be a link between feline obesity and constipation. Poor eating habits in cats – such as eating more than necessary – could cause significant weight gain. When your cat becomes accustomed to ‘binge eating’ practices, it becomes easier for them to eat more food than their body needs.

Aside from the fact that the excess simply clogs up the system on its way out of the back end, these cats may also experience anatomical changes. Excess fat can press against their internal organs, causing blockages in certain areas. Keeping your cat healthy and lean should help reduce the possibility of these types of problems.

What are Treatment Options for Cats with Constipation?

Dietary Changes

​The first and most obvious solution for a bad case of constipation would be a change in your cat’s diet. But because it’s known that a sudden dietary change can upset your cat’s tummy (especially those with a sensitive stomach), many pet owners end up asking – can changing cat food cause constipation or perhaps, worsen it?

The trick here is making the change gradual. Slowly incorporate the new cat food in with the old, and increase the amount of new food as each new day comes. Keep doing this for a week until you can serve a whole bowl of the new food to your cat.

In terms of food quality, it’s recommended that you serve your cat high fiber dry cat food for constipation, or wet food that’s formulated for the same purpose. This can help encourage the intestines to churn out its contents and thus flush out whatever blockage may have developed in your cat.

​Ground Pumpkin Seeds

​A natural remedy that you might want to try involves sneaking in some ground pumpkin seeds into your cat’s food. As much as a table spoon per serving of food can be good enough to encourage its digestive tract to flush out clogged up waste material.

​Supplements, Stool Softeners, or Laxatives

​You might need your vet’s prescription to get your hands on any one of these remedies, except the supplement of course. But they do help. The challenge is getting your cat to take a dosage, especially because cats don’t necessarily like being forced to take things like medication.

It’s also important to make sure to keep an eye on your cat because of the possible side effects that these products might cause. For that reason, it’s the least recommended solution, often being taken as a last resort.

How Can the Right Cat Food Help with Constipation?

If your cat is constantly constipated, or if you want to lower the risk of your pet developing constipation in the first place, it’s best that you start him off on a high fiber diet. Fiber can’t be digested, which is why you might notice some leafy greens in your stool after you chow down on a salad.

In the same way, using fiber for cats with constipation can help clear out their stomach and digestive tract. The basic idea behind this is that fiber works almost like a broom, brushing away blockages and other waste material that refuses to leave your cat’s system. The bulk of fiber can also promote more aggressive peristalsis – the movement of the digestive tract – in order to encourage regular bowel movements.

Another question that pet owners seem to always ask is – does grain free cat food cause constipation? The short answer is no. Cat food that tends to cause the most constipation are those that contain too many different types of protein, micronutrients, or added ingredients that concentrate in the waste material.

A diet that contains more fiber can easily ease your cat out of that episode of constipation. Be careful though – foods that contain too much fiber can cause dehydration in the long run. So it’s best to use this specific type of cat food only on certain days, interchanging it with your cat’s typical food throughout the week.

The Top 5 Best Foods for Constipated Cats

1. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Overweight Management Cat Food

A simple tip to help your search for the right food for your constipated cat is to look for weight management formulations. These foods often contain a higher amount of fiber which can give your cat the feeling of fullness without causing weight gain. It’s also this high fiber content that helps with constipation.

On our list, the best high fiber wet cat food has to be the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Overweight Management Cat Food. This unique formulation incorporates low fat and low calories, but packs a punch with high fiber and high protein. So it gives your cat everything he needs to improve his lean muscle mass, while allowing him to lose those few extra pounds.

On top of that, this food recipe can help ease an episode of constipation, giving your cat substantial amounts of fiber to sweep through his system and clear out any blockages and hard stool.

​2. Royal Canin Calorie Control High Fiber Canned Cat Food

​The Royal Canin Calorie Control High Fiber Canned Cat Food definitely isn’t cheap, but if you’ve got the extra penny to spare, it definitely makes a smart investment for your cat’s digestive health. Aside from curtailing the amount of calories your cat gets with each meal, the recipe is packed with lots of fiber to clean out any waste material throughout the digestive system.

What we particularly like about this specific food choice is that it’s a wet food formulation. As one of the best high fiber wet cat foods we’ve found, it doesn’t only resolve constipation, but guarantees optimal hydration levels to prevent kidney disease.

​3. Blue Buffalo for Cats Natural Adult Dry Cat Food Hairball & Weight Control

​For pet owners looking for an all-natural and organic food choice for their favorite feline, the Blue Buffalo for Cats Natural Adult Dry Cat Food for Hairball & Weight Control makes an excellent choice. Packed with fiber, this specific formulation doesn’t only help your cat get rid of waste, but also improves the management of hairballs so they’re pushed out the back end instead of thrown up all over your floor.

​4. Hill's Prescription Diet r/d Weight Reduction Chicken (Dry)

​Of course, what’s a list for specific health needs without an entry from Hill’s Prescription Diet? Their Weight Reduction formulation is a premium choice that promises reliable results for your constipated cat. The recipe incorporates an appealing chicken flavor that really works well with a variety of house cats with different preferences, so you can be sure each serving won’t go to waste.

​5. Wholehearted Healthy Digestion Chicken Egg (Dry)

Developed to help with easy, gentle, and hassle-free digestion, the Wholehearted Healthy Digestion Chicken Egg Product Recipe Dry Cat Food is a choice that we can highly recommend. Made with premium forms of dietary fiber, this cat food aids the digestive process by packing each bite with the right ingredients that are easily digested and pushed through the system in order to produce healthy and gentle bowel movements. So for cats with sensitive stomachs and constipation, we find that this food makes the most suitable choice.

Conclusion

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Overweight Management Cat Food makes the top spot on our list of the best cat food for constipation. But don’t settle just because we said so! Based on what we’ve learned through extensive research, the four other choices we’ve listed in our review also make suitable choices for cats and pet owners of different preferences and standards, so be sure to read up on those as well to guide you on making the right choice for your beloved feline.

The post Best Cat Food for Constipation (Top 5 for Constipated Cats) appeared first on Choosey Cats.

If there’s one thing all cat owners have in common, it’s that living with smelly poop is something we would all much rather do without. Kitty litter can get really nasty really quick, especially if your little kitty tends to produce poop that isn’t as easy on the nose. No doubt, a stinky load from your cat’s rear end could cause a stench to take over your entire space. This is especially true for apartment dwellers that don’t always have the ventilation to air out something as potent.

If your cats poop smells horrible, don’t sweat it. There are easy, accessible, and simple solutions you can adopt to help make it easier to breathe in your home. The most practical? Find the best cat food for smelly poop, of course! Not quite sure where to start your search? Let our complete guide help you towards a sound choice.

What Causes Cat Poop to Be Smelly?

Inappropriate Diet

​In most cases, smelly poop can be caused by an inappropriate diet. Certain ingredients in cat food can often cause cats’ stool to become particularly insulting to the nose. But it’s difficult to really find the specific ingredient, as each cat has a unique reaction to different ingredients in store-bought formulations. So what might cause one cat’s poop to become smelly might not do the same for another cat.

One of the ways you can pinpoint this as the problem would be to switch your cat slowly to a brand new cat food with a completely different formulation. If the stink goes away, then it was likely something in the first cat food that caused the problem.

However, if in case your cat’s poop still smells, consider how much excess macro and micronutrients his food contains. If they exceed his daily dietary needs, then he might simply be pooping out what his body doesn’t need. So before you jump on those 45% protein cat foods, consider the fact that an adult cat only needs about 18% of protein in each meal. Anything in excess will probably cause a smelly stool. The same goes for an excess of fats, carbohydrates, and micronutrients.

​Hunting

​Notice that your cat hunts insects, mice, and other small pests? Make sure you check on him to figure out where he keeps them. Because if you’re not finding the spoils of your cat’s hunt in places around your home, then that means he might be eating them.

These small creatures smell foul enough on their own, so you can imagine what they can do to your cat’s poop once they’re ingested. You can either keep a close eye on your cat to make sure he doesn’t end up eating what he caught, or you can eliminate the pests in your home so he doesn’t have a reason to hunt or an opportunity to eat them.

​Supplements & Vitamins

​Any added supplements or vitamins that you squeeze into your cat’s diet can cause smelly stool. How? Well, the same principle from a rich food formulation applies. Anything in excess of what he needs will be pushed out of the system in the form of concentrated stool or urine.

Most store-bought cat food contains just about the right blend of micronutrients, vitamins, and minerals to keep your feline happy and healthy without the need for supplements. So unless your veterinarian actually recommends the need for them, try to avoid giving your cat any sort of added vitamins that he might just end up flushing out of his body.

​Infection & Parasites

​In some cases, smelly stool might be indicative of a bigger issue. Some parasitic and bacterial infections manifest their presence in your cat’s excrement, so be sure to keep a wary eye. If you notice that your cat’s stool suddenly develops an unappealing smell along with other symptoms of illness like lethargy, loss of appetite, and vomiting, you might need to visit your vet as soon as possible.

What are Treatment Options for Cats with Smelly Odor Poop?

​A Change of Diet

Most of the time, something as simple as changing your cat’s food can be good enough to resolve a smelly poop problem. As a general rule, you should try to steer clear of cat food that contains more micronutrients and vitamins than your cat actually needs. Those that incorporate more than one protein source are also known to aggravate the stinky issue.​

So what foods should you actually be looking for? Grain free cat food is a smart choice that can help reduce any foul odors that come out of your pet’s rear end. The reason for this is because grain free diets are closer to your cat’s natural diet, so they agree much more with a feline’s digestive system. The ingredients found in grain free food is typically easily digested, maximizing absorption to make sure your cat poops out nothing other than waste.

​Choose the Right Litter

​Let's face it - there is no such thing as poop that isn't smelly. For first time cat owners who are just discovering how cat poop can smell, it might seem like the odor is too powerful to handle. But the fact is, cat’s stool can be pretty smelly even on an average, everyday basis. So maybe the problem is just that you’re not used to how a cat’s poop can be.

What you can do is invest in the right litter. Clumping sand is good at keeping cat poop from making a mess, but it’s not the best when it comes to neutralizing smells. So experts recommend making use of a mixture of crystals which control odors, and sand that keeps the mess under control.

Alternately, you can also try to make sure your cat’s litter box is in a well-ventilated area, and that you have something like an air purifier to help limit the spread of any foul smells throughout your space.

Finally, it doesn’t hurt to clean your cat’s litter box out a little more frequently. This way, smells don’t compound or have the chance to take over your home.

Visit the Vet​

​If it’s not your cat’s diet or your virgin nose that’s the problem, then maybe it’s high time you pay your vet a visit. For younger cats, it might be necessary to update your pet’s deworming record. For older cats, make sure you talk to your vet about possible parasitic or bacterial infections. It might also speed up the diagnostic process if you can bring a stool sample to the clinic for further analysis.

Should You Change Your Cat’s Diet if Its Poop is Too Smelly?

The answer is – it depends. For instance, problems like parasitic and bacterial infections won’t be resolved by a change in diet and require medical attention. If the underlying infection or infestation isn’t resolved, then your cat’s stool will continue on being unfriendly to your olfactory even if you change to the blandest grain-free food you find.

Parasitic and bacterial infections are uncommon in indoor cats that are well-cared for though. So if you don’t suppose that the issue is the cause of any unwanted inhabitants in your feline’s system, then a dietary change might be in order. Make sure to check with your vet anyway, as they might also have some suggestions to make other than switching to cat food for low odor feces.

The 4 Best Cat Foods for Smelly Poop

1. Blue Wilderness High Protein Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Cat Food

​Our top choice for the best dry cat food for smell poop? None other than this recipe from Blue Wilderness. Okay, we did say to steer clear of foods branded “high-protein”, but for the brand’s High Protein Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Cat Food, we’ll make an exception. One of the reasons is because this formulation contains protein only from poultry sources, so despite having a high-protein recipe, it isn’t hard to digest.

Another reason why we love this cat food is because it uses all natural animal ingredients. This helps mimic a cat’s natural diet in the wild, so the ingredients are readily absorbed by a house cat’s system, leaving little to be excreted as feces.

Although it might be a little on the pricey side, this cat food definitely gets our thumbs up in terms of quality and efficacy. So if you really want to say goodbye to those foul odors stinking up your space every time your kitty visits his litter, this formulation makes a great investment.

​2. Purina ONE Grain-Free Classic Pate Wet Food

​Of course, leave it to Purina to come up with some of the most effective dietary choices for our cats. Their ONE Grain-Free Classic Pate Wet Food makes it to the second spot on our list for its palatable recipe that makes use of zero fillers.

Made from real beef, this pate can easily please any household cat – even the pickiest of eaters. So you won’t need to worry about your fuzzy friend eating less than its body needs. What’s more, the grain-free recipe means your cat will absorb almost every macro and micro the formulation has to offer. This effectively minimizes any poop odors, and optimizes digestive health to boot.

​3. Purina Beyond Grain-Free Adult Wet Cat Food

Another top pick on our list comes yet again from Purina. Their Beyond Grain-Free Adult Wet Food is made from real turkey and doesn’t incorporate any grains, corn, wheat, soy, or meal to aid in optimal absorption. Other than that, this natural cat food doesn’t use any preservatives, artificial colors or flavors, and other additives that do nothing for your cat’s health.

Price wise, it’s definitely a little more expensive than the previous pick from Purina. But nutrition wise, they’re pretty similar. The main difference lies in the fact that the Beyond formulation simply incorporates ingredients that are little closer to natural, so some cats with sensitive stomachs might take to it more readily.

4. WholeHearted Easy Digestion Chicken Egg Dry Cat Food​

​WholeHearted is known for their hearty, delicious cat food recipes that try to mimic a cat’s natural diet. Their Easy Digestion formulation makes its way to the fourth spot on our list thanks to its blend of natural ingredients that work gently on your cat’s system to encourage healthy bowel movements and reduce the smell of foul odors.

Aside from minimizing the smell of your cat’s poop with its 100% grain free formulation, this particular cat food also helps optimize the way your cat’s gut works all together. With its carefully combined ingredients, the Easy Digestion formulation normalizes peristalsis, cleans away blockage, and maximizes absorption so your cat gets the most out of every meal.

Final Thoughts on Stinky Cat Poops

We know how nasty it can get when your cat takes a poop and the stench takes over. Fortunately, you don’t have to wear that gas mask forever – as long as you make the right dietary changes for your cats.

We found the Blue Wilderness High Protein cat food to be ​the best cat food for smelly poop, but don’t stop there. All the other choices on our list are vetted, tried, tested, and trusted as well. So you can go ahead and check those out to find the ideal dietary pick that will help neutralize your prized kitten companion’s stink bombs in a snap.

The post Best Cat Food for Smelly Poop! Feline Diet for Low Odor Feces appeared first on Choosey Cats.

It’s normal for cats to fart, in case you were wondering. But that doesn’t change the fact that the issue can sometimes get out of hand. Just as you might experience bouts of uncomfortable flatulence, so does your cat go through the same thing. As a pet owner, you need to make sure you’re responding to these needs, so as to limit the discomfort your feline might be experiencing.

Cats can develop gas as the result of a variety of issues –some trivial, and others that potentially warrant a visit to the vet. So if you’re noticing that your cat has gotten gassier over the past few days, you might want to consider making a few changes.

One of the changes you can make? A change in diet. Check out our guide to finding the best cat food for gassy cats along with reviews for a few trusted options to help you land the right remedy for your farting feline.

What Causes Cats to Be Gassy?

Poor Diet

The main reason why many house cats develop flatulence is because of a poor diet. Some ingredients in store-bought cat food might not agree with your cat’s digestive system, causing the development of flatulence which could also lead to discomfort.

Some ingredients to look out for include corn, soy, wheat, and even certain types of fiber. As a general rule, you’ll want to avoid cat food formulations that include any sort of ‘meal’ in their list of ingredients, as these are known to cause significant gassiness.

It’s also important to make sure that your chosen cat food doesn’t contain too many macro and micronutrients that your cat might not be able to properly absorb. Poor absorption can leave lots of excess food molecules floating throughout the digestive system, which is another known cause for flatulence.

As a pet owner, you might also want to prevent your cat from eating dairy products of any sort, raw food, and spoiled food. So if you try to provide your feline a staple diet of wet canned food, be sure to keep track of how long it’s been set out to avoid any spoilage.

Improper Eating Habits

If you frequent pet supply stores ,it’s possible that you’ve already seen a slow feeder once or twice. These bowls feature special maze-like patterns that help scatter kibble and make it harder to eat all in one go. The purpose? It lets your cat eat at a much slower, controlled pace.

This is because when your cat gobbles up food too fast for its own good, it can ingest quite a bit of air as well. This is what many refer to as air in the stomach. When this accumulates in the digestive system, it causes flatulence.

Inactivity

Peristalsis is the natural, involuntary movement of the digestive tract, and is triggered by food intake. While it does naturally occur without volitional effort from your cat, exercise and movement definitely helps the process along. That is, the more your cat moves, the more efficient peristalsis is.

If your cat prefers to lie around after a meal, food inside the digestive system will still move through the system, but the efficiency of this movement might be impaired. Trying to encourage your cat to move around after each meal, or to adapt a regular exercise schedule by providing a play gym for him should prevent flatulence from inactivity.

Eating Non-Food or Human Food Items

Any cat owner knows how cats tend to eat anything and everything as their way of exploring and discovering the world around them. Unfortunately, some of the things your cat might eat could cause flatulence.

For instance, cats can’t tolerate some human food like dairy, onions, garlic, citrus, and according to anecdotal sources, raisins. If eaten, this could cause an upset stomach in your cat, which often comes hand in hand with gassiness.

In terms of actual non-food items like rocks, bones, and fur, these things can cause blockages in your cat’s system, and thus result to air pockets throughout the digestive tract. When unresolved, such non-food items could lead to chronic gassiness which can be very uncomfortable to your pet.

Infections

Infections can produce specific types of waste as a result of our body’s battle with invading bacteria. White blood cells, bacterial matter, and cells that die in the process are filtered through our system and released as excrement and urine.

When these cells die however, they release chemicals into our system which can cause bloating and flatulence. This particular type of gassiness though is often of a different caliber, taking on a very distinct smell that might raise a few red flags to any concerned pet parent.

If you suspect that your cat’s gassiness has taken on an odor that’s out of the ordinary, and if you’re noticing a few other symptoms of illness along with it, make sure to visit your vet as soon as possible.

Best Ways to Treat Gassiness in Cats

Treating gassiness in your cat often depends on what’s causing it. For problems that involve eating habits, proper training can help limit the occurrence of flatulence. Investing in a slow feeder, a play gym, or simply allowing your cat some more time outdoors can help with gassiness that results from eating habits and inactivity.

If it’s a bacterial infection, you might want to consider visiting the vet as soon as possible. There’s little you can do at home to resolve these problems, so be sure to seek the advice of a professional once you find yourself considering the possibility of infection.

In all other instances, a change of diet might be the best solution. Some formulations are specifically developed to help ease gassiness in cats, making them a simple, accessible, and often affordable solution for the problem.

How Can the Right Food Help with Flatulence?

The most common reason for flatulence in both cats and kittens is diet. Feeding your pet food that doesn’t sit well with their system can cause unwanted reactions that ultimately lead to uncomfortable gas.

Specific foods that are formulated to omit certain ingredients can be much easier for your cat to absorb and digest, improving the way their nutritional needs are met, and reducing the chances for flatulence.

The Top 5 Best Cat Foods for Gassy Cats

1. Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Cat Food

Making its way to the top of our list is the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Cat Food. This formulation has proven to be a reliable remedy against flatulence, offering house cats superb nutritional value to boot.

What makes it so ideal for gassy cats is the fact that it uses a limited amount of ingredients. With just one protein source, and a handful of essential micronutrients, each serving of this cat food can be efficiently absorbed by your cat’s system, leaving little to be converted to waste.

With this simple yet smart combination of ingredients, the Natural Balance L.I.D. formulation is highly digestible, reducing the instances of flatulence and meeting your cat’s dietary needs to a T.

2. Nutro Grain Free Adult Dry Cat Food

Another grain free choice that’s big on nutrition is the Nutro Grain Free Adult Dry Cat Food. Made from real animal meat, this formulation meets daily nutritional needs, minus all the unwanted ingredients that could cause gassiness in your cat.

Many of those who have purchased this cat food in the past claim that it’s highly palatable and appealing to cats. So if you’ve got a picky eater on your hands, you might not have too big of a problem trying to shift them to this kibble. Sure, it might not be the cheapest, but it does work great to reduce flatulence and support dietary needs, so it really is worth every penny.

3. Wellness Complete Health Natural Grain Free Wet Canned Cat Food

Interested in finding wet cat food that reduces flatulence? There aren’t a lot of them on the market. Fortunately, there are choices like Wellness Complete Health Natural Grain Free Wet Canned Cat Food which helps with gassiness despite its wet formulation.

Wet food is often though to induce flatulence because it’s typically packed with lots of macros and micros that often exceed what your pet needs. And that’s what sets this pick from Wellness apart from other choices. Despite coming in a wet formulation, it’s grain free recipe provides just the right amount of nutrition so your cat can fully absorb what it offers minus the risk for gas.

4. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Grain Free Canned Cat Food

If you’re looking for something a little more affordable than the option from Wellness, then we recommend checking out the Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Frain Free Canned Cat Food. Made from real animal meat and organic vegetable ingredients, this formulation is big on all-natural nutrition that does without additives, preservatives, and pesticides.

We specially appreciate how it has been found to be a suitable choice for picky cats as well, ensuring an easy switch for cat owners. Of course, its nutritional profile might not be as beefy as what Wellness has to offer, which is why it’s ranked slightly lower. But it definitely still meets needs and gets rid of gas.

5. Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain Free Cat Food

The last cat food on our list of the best feline foods for flatulence comes from Blue Buffalo. Much like the other choices on our list, this cat food makes use of natural ingredients that are blended together to maximize absorption. Each bite contains just the right amount of proteins, fats, carbs, and vitamins to keep your cat healthy without burdening his system with more than he needs.

Price-wise, this Blue Buffalo choice is also the most affordable on our list. This makes it the easiest and most practical choice, especially for buyers who want to end an episode of gas without having to step too much beyond their designated budget.

In Summary

It’s not easy to watch your cat struggle with discomfort due to gas, and it’s definitely not easy having to smell the struggle either. So make sure you choose the best cat food for gassy cats to help your feline overcome the flatulence.

Our top pick would have to be the Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Dry Cat Food which packs the right macros and micros without upsetting your cat’s delicate digestive balance. It was a tough pick though, and we highly recommend the other four choices too. So be sure to check those out during your search so you can be sure of the food you’re giving your best feline friend.

The post Best Cat Food for Gassy Cats (Diet to Help Reduce Flatulence) appeared first on Choosey Cats.

Cats are known to vomit frequently. It’s not always a bad thing – sometimes, cats just need to get rid of an occasional hairball. But if it’s reached a point where your cat seems to vomit more than normal, you might have a sensitive kitty on your hands.

Sensitive stomachs in cats are pretty common, and they can cause quite a bit of vomiting. What’s more, cats that frequently have upset stomachs might not be able to properly manage food that’s not formulated for their unique digestive needs. So, as a pet owner, you need to make sure you’re giving your cat the best cat food for sensitive stomachs.

But with so many different types of cat food on the market, you might find yourself asking – how can you pinpoint the right cat food choices in a sea of options? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Take cues from us on choosing the right food for your sensitive cat with this comprehensive guide.

What are the Causes of Digestive Issues and Sensitive Stomachs in Cats?

Hair Balls

Cats spend about half of their waking hours just grooming themselves. So you see how they might ingest enough hair to form a hairball. Truth is, most of the hair they end up swallowing from their constant grooming is flushed out through their digestive system with no problem.

But the hairs that are left in their system can clump together and form what many cat owners’ feet have come to know as hairballs. When the clump becomes large enough to cause irritation, the stomach forces it upwards and out the cat’s mouth in order to clear the system of the accumulated hair.

Intestinal Worms

As a general rule, cats need to be dewormed regularly from the time they’re born. As kittens, they need to be dewormed once every two weeks for 12 weeks. Once they reach 6 months of age, they need to be dewormed monthly. After that, a cat must be dewormed at least once every 3 months for safe measure.

Intestinal worms have been known to cause vomiting in cats, along with a host of other symptoms. If you’ve noticed that your cat has been vomiting more often, even on an empty stomach, and if your cat has started manifesting other signs of illness such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and a runny nose, it might be high time you visit the vet.

Change in Diet

Some cats can have such sensitive stomachs that they end up vomiting even with just a change of food. This signals that their stomach is well adjusted to the previous food they were given, which means they might need some time to become accustomed to the new food.

To prevent vomiting as a result of a change in diet, make sure to transition your cat slowly. Mixing the new food with the old food in small portions working up to a complete change can help them acclimate to the brand new formulation.

Eating Too Fast

Your cat’s anatomy can play a role in the way his system takes down food. Keep in mind that a cat is a four-legged animal, which means their esophagus lies horizontally, as opposed to our vertical anatomy. So when your cat eats too much food too fast, large chunks can stimulate the esophageal sphincter and cause your cat to throw up. Using a slow feeder can usually help with this type of problem.

Sensitive Stomach

Some cats naturally have sensitive stomachs, so they won’t take too well to some of the ingredients in most store-bought cat food. Fortunately, there are a lot of manufacturers out there who develop specific cat food formulations that are easier for cats to digest minus the upset stomach.

What are Treatment Options for Cats with Sensitive Stomachs?

What can you do to help keep your cat from wretching all over the kitchen floor? Well, there’s no way to eliminate vomiting completely, but there are things you can do to help minimize the occurrence.

Regular Grooming

If your cat’s vomit is usually made up of clumps of hair, then it’s probably because they have too much hair fall. Grooming your cat regularly will help clear their fur of any shedding hair, and minimize the amount they ingest when they groom themselves.

Slow Down Feeding

Cats that vomit as a result of eating too much too fast could benefit from slowed down meal times. Special bowls that scatter food between small knobs can make it difficult for cats to eat too fast. You can also try splitting meals down into smaller ones and spreading them out through the day so your cat gets enough without overeating in a single sitting.

Revert to Old Food

If you just made the switch to a new cat food and your feline doesn’t seem to be taking to it too well, you can revert to your old cat food and incorporate the new one in portions. Start off with ¼ new and ¾ old, then work your way to half and half, then ¾ new, until you get a complete bowl of new food over a span of a few days.

Choose the Right Cat Food

Check your options and you’ll find that it isn’t really that hard to find cat food for cats that throw up. These choices are specially formulated to meet your cats specific dietary needs so as to limit the chances of vomiting.

Should You Change Your Cat’s Diet If He Always Vomits?

Some pet owners think that if their cat vomits too much, it’s essential to change the diet. While that might seem like a practical solution, it’s equally important to check all aspects of your cat’s daily life that might be causing the upset.

If there are other factors like an illness, or if your cat simply eats too fast, then you might have to consider other remedies. If you just changed your cat’s diet and it’s caused him to vomit more, then you might have to switch back to the old food.

But if you find that your cat’s vomiting frequently without an apparent cause, then it might be the smart choice to switch him to a specific food that will address his sensitive stomach.

Will Raw and Dehydrated Foods Be Better or Worse?

If your cat’s going through an episode of an upset stomach, you might want to introduce bland food like boiled chicken and fish into their diet. You can also mix these in with rice in order to soothe the upset while still providing your cat the protein and calories he needs in order to overcome the problem.

Generally speaking though, any raw or dehydrated foods might not always be the best cat food for cats with digestive problems. The reason for this is the fact that raw foods can contain certain protozoa or bacteria that can further aggravate an upset stomach.

As a rule of thumb, pet owners should feed cats with upset stomachs food that contains protein from only one source. So if it’s chicken, there shouldn’t be any other meat source thrown in. For food that uses fish, it should only be fish. This helps make the food easier to digest, preventing the possibility of an upset stomach.

The 4 Best Cat Foods for Sensitive Stomachs

1. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food

Of course, the top pick on our list of the best cat food to prevent vomiting diarrhea comes from Hill’s Science Diet. This adult formulation is developed specifically for easy digestion, making it a solid choice for cats that have a particularly hard time processing complex food formulations. Aside from supporting optimal digestive health, this food also support the skin, keeping it healthy, hydrated, and free from irritation.

To top all of that off, this Hill’s Science Diet formulation also keeps cats safe from artificial flavors, colorings, additives, and preservatives, giving gentle care and nutrition to any cat with a sensitive system. It’s also worth mentioning that if you were looking for the best wet cat food for sensitive stomach, the canned variety of this specific formulation can be a great choice.

2. Purina ONE Sensitive Systems Adult Dry Cat Food

The second best cat food on our list comes from Purina. Their ONE Sensitive Systems Adult Dry Cat Food makes use of a bland yet appealing recipe that helps make it easier for cats to digest. The protein in this formulation comes from real turkey meat, which also helps care for the skin. Despite having just one protein source though, it does pack a punch with 34 grams of protein per serving, ensuring proper lean muscle health for your cat.

3. Blue Buffalo for Cats Sensitive Stomach

Blue Buffalo is often praised for its all-natural formulations, which shines through with their Sensitive Stomach recipe. Made from natural meat and vegetable sources, this cat food combines chicken and brown rice to soothe an upset stomach. The plain formulation uses few ingredients, making it much easier for your cat’s system to process.

Despite this, it still provides all the right macros and micronutrients to satisfy any cat’s specific dietary and nutritional needs. For that reason, this specific food has also been recognized as a suitable cat food for older cats with sensitive stomachs.

4. Halo Natural Adult Sensitive Stomachs

The last choice on our list is the Halo Natural’s. Made from whole meat, these recipes boast an all-natural formulation that works well with even the most sensitive of stomachs. They’re also sourced from organic animals, which means they’re free from preservatives, colors, artificial ingredients, and GMOs.

Final Thoughts

It’s not easy to care for a cat that’s always throwing up. Fortunately, the answer might just be a change in cat food. Check out our recommendations and find the best cat food for sensitive stomachs. Based on what we’ve learned, it’s not likely to go wrong with the Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Cat Food which is perfectly formulated to soothe and care for an aching feline stomach. So be sure to check that out along with the other choices we vouch for in our list of top picks.

The post Best Cat Food for Sensitive Stomach (& Preventing Vomiting) appeared first on Choosey Cats.

The kidneys of cats function just like human kidneys do. Their main purpose is to filter the blood and sort out waste products to be excreted in the urine. The kidneys are vital to maintaining normal biological processes in a cat's body, and when their function is impaired or lost, the cat can suffer multiple health problems as an effect.

Disease of the kidney can be managed through nutritional modification alongside therapy. Cats with chronic kidney disease or chronic renal failure can benefit greatly from the best cat food for kidney disease. Cat food for kidney disease can either be commercial or homemade, and we will discuss both options here.

Understanding Kidney Disease in Cats

Kidney disease in cats can be classified into two types, which are: acute renal failure and chronic kidney disease.

Acute renal failure develops in a short amount of time and can arise from several causes such as poison, bodily trauma, shock, kidney infection, or heart failure among others. Cats who develop acute renal failure need to be treated immediately, as this type of kidney disease can usually be reversed with proper treatment.

On the other hand, chronic kidney disease in cats is a progressive loss of kidney function. This can happen in a span of months to years. The typical manifestation of chronic kidney disease is characterized by increased thirst and urination, which can be observed when a cat drinks a lot more water and produces a higher volume of urine. Other signs of chronic kidney disease are large feces, weight loss, decreased appetite, and constant sleeping.

If you observe that your cat manifests any of these signs, it is advisable that you see a veterinarian immediately.

How Can the Right Cat Food Help With Kidney Disease?

When your cat is diagnosed with kidney disease or kidney failure, your veterinarian will prescribe different treatments to delay the progression of the disease. Among the common treatments for feline kidney disease is dietary management. A properly managed diet can help extend the lifespan of your cat with kidney disease, as well as decrease symptoms and instances of hospitalization.

When feeding a cat with kidney disease, you can either feed them commercial cat food for kidney disease or homemade food that is carefully selected and measured.

​Commercial Cat Food

Commercial cat food for cats with kidney disease is formulated to support renal function and have ingredients that are low in minerals that can exacerbate kidney disease. Cat food for kidney disease needs to have controlled amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium. By controlling these nutrients, the renal load is not overwhelming for the cat’s kidneys.

Unlike non prescription cat food, cat food that has been designed for kidney disease contains balanced amounts of protein, phosphorus, fiber, and essential fatty acids among other nutrients. Moreover, they are designed to meet your cat’s nutritional needs to still maintain muscle mass and healthy coat even with a controlled amount of nutrients.

Homemade Cat Food​

If you have the time, you can also feed your cat a raw food diet or homemade cat food. Raw foods can be more alluring to your cat because they prefer fresh food in general. If your cat’s kidney disease is still in its early stages or has the chance to be improved, it is recommended that you feed your cat foods that are high in protein. Raw chicken, turkey, salmon, or tuna are good options for your cat. These foods will help prevent loss of muscle mass and also bring your cat’s appetite back up.

A common question we come across: Is cooked chicken good for cats with kidney disease? Well, some cats may prefer cooked chicken over raw chicken. For cats with progressing kidney disease, chicken breast is more recommended than any other cut because leaner meat is lower in phosphorus.

Other options for homemade cat food for kidney disease are low-protein alternatives such as soft carrots, potato peels, peas, and greens. Combine these with low-protein meat sources that do not contain a lot of fat.

Treats​

Treats for cats with kidney disease can be beneficial if they have a loss of appetite. Choose treats that are made for kidney disease and are also rich in flavor, so your cat can have optimum nutrient intake even if they don’t want to eat their food that much. However, you still need to be mindful of how many treats you give your cat per day; too many treats can displace their appetite for actual meals.

Which is Better for Kidney Issues & Prevention: Wet or Dry Cat Food?

First, let's take a look at an important aspect of managing kidney disease: hydration. A cat with the impaired renal function will need to be adequately hydrated. Wet cat food will add much-needed moisture to your cat's diet. Thus, wet cat food is preferred if your cat does not like drinking from its water bowl, or the veterinarian advises increased water intake.

On the other hand, dry cat food can be beneficial if your cat refuses to eat wet cat food. Loss of appetite or aversion to certain cat foods may happen after your cat is hospitalized. To avoid weight loss, experiment with different brands of commercial cat food to see which one your cat can tolerate.

Recommended: Five Best Cat Food for Kidney Disease Choices

If your cat has kidney disease, it is best to give them cat food that is formulated to improve renal function while still supporting their basic nutritional needs. Here are some products that fit those requirements well:

1. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support F

This product is an example of a low phosphorus cat food for kidney disease. Cat food that is low in phosphorus can help prevent further deterioration of the kidneys. Furthermore, the Royal Canin renal cat food promotes good appetite and digestion due to its highly digestible content and flavorful aroma.

2. Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Early Support Canned Chicken 

The Hill's Prescription diet brand offers wet cat food that is made for cats with early onset of kidney disease. This recipe consists of high-quality chicken in order to support muscle maintenance while reducing the risk of kidney stone development. Additionally, it has controlled amounts of phosphorus and sodium so that your cat's kidney disease will not progress rapidly.

3. Forza10 Kidney Renal Actiwet With Lamb

Another wet cat food on this list is from Forza10. This product is specially formulated for cats with depressed renal function; containing controlled portions of protein, sodium, and phosphorus to suppress the deterioration of the kidneys. Forza10 also boasts of its inclusion of good quality meats such as pasture-raised lamb.

4. Purina Pro Plan Vet Diet NF Renal Function

The Purina Pro Plan dry cat food for cats with kidney disease is a great option to help maintain muscle mass even with limited amounts of protein. This product is made from high-quality protein but controlled amounts of phosphorus, ensuring that your cat will get the nutrition it needs without the kidney disease progressing even further. Moreover, it is very aromatic and can entice your pet if it has a low appetite.

5. Delectables Stew Senior For Digestion & Kidney Support Chicken and Tuna

Chronic kidney disease is a common sickness for cats in their senior years. To prevent their kidneys from deteriorating with age, you can give them the Delectables Stew Senior wet cat food for digestive and kidney support. Moreover, this formulation is made from high-quality protein from chicken and tuna, ensuring that your senior cat will receive optimal protein amounts.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, cats can still live their expected lifespan even with kidney disease. All it takes is proper veterinary treatment, dietary management, and an overall positive owner who gives their cat all the necessary care to control kidney disease.

Among our recommendations, we deem that the Hill’s Prescription Diet renal is the best cat food for kidney disease. It prevents the progression of kidney failure while still providing enough protein and micronutrients that your cat needs. Moreover, it contains antioxidants and essential fatty acids that are required for healthy immunity, skin, and coat.

The post Best Cat Food for Kidney Disease & Renal Support appeared first on Choosey Cats.

An estimated 3% of house cats below the age of 10 have some form of chronic kidney disease (CKD.) This number increases dramatically as a cat enters its senior years, with up to 30% of older cats ages 10 or over being reported to have some form of CKD. These numbers don’t take into account other issues like urinary tract infections and kidney damage, which are both predisposing factors for CKD.

House cats are particularly prone to kidney problems because of the big differences between their supposed wild diet and the diet they receive when they’re domesticated. It’s important to remember that the feline system has a particularly pronounced need for hydration, so any food that saps their bodies of necessary fluids can start a domino effect that leads all the way to chronic kidney disease.

Fortunately, we’re no longer strangers to the dangers of CKD in cats, which is why many cat food manufacturers have come up with specific formulations that take urinary health into account. Wondering which one is the best cat food for urinary health? Take cues from our definitive guide.

Quick Look: Top 5 Urinary Health Cat Foods​

Understanding Urinary Issues in Cats

Before you even go out in search of cat food that can help with your cat’s urinary issues, it’s important to know how kidney disease develops in felines. The main contributing factor is the fact that cats are often born with a predisposition to kidney problems. So if they’re fed the wrong food, it becomes easier for the cells in their kidneys to sustain damage.

Other factors that could contribute to the development of kidney disease include poisons, infection, and dehydration. Unfortunately, what many pet owners don’t know is that the wrong cat food can cause chronic dehydration, which usually goes unnoticed.

As a pet owner, it’s important to keep an eye out for the possible symptoms of kidney disease. In doing this, you can prevent any complications or even restore your cat back to optimal health to eliminate the chance of chronic kidney disease.

Frequent urination 

Cats should urinate around 4 times every day. But if you’re noticing that your cat is peeing more often, it might be a sign that his kidneys can no longer manage the fluid it holds. If your cat pees in areas around the house instead of his litter box, that might also be a sign of incontinence.

Increased thirst

As your cat loses hydration, he will try to replenish what’s been lost. So you will notice that he might drink more often.

Urinary tract infection

Kidneys that are no longer in optimal condition are much more prone to infections – the most common being urinary tract infections.

Weight loss and loss of appetite

You may notice that your cat has lost quite some weight, and will start to refuse eating food. This goes hand in hand with the general feeling of malaise which may make your cat feel weak and uninterested in most activities such as eating.

Bloody urine

This indicates that the kidney problem has reached a point where the tissues of the organ might be bruised or infected, causing blood to flow through the system and out along with the urine.

Poor Overall Appearance 

Hair loss, a dry coat, mouth ulcers, bad breath, and changes in fur and tongue color are all indicative of a kidney problem. Make sure to inspect your cat’s physical appearance frequently to identify these signs before they worsen.

How the Right Cat Food Can Help

Keep in mind that much like our bodies, a cat’s system needs very precise nutritional requirements to guarantee optimal health. One main thing to consider is the fact that a cat’s body is mainly acidic, so you need to feed it food that helps maintain this pH balance.

The problem with most cat food choices is that they lack the ingredients that help achieve this balance. The ideal content would be fresh meat like chicken, fish, and beef. However, because many manufacturers seek to cut costs by using synthetic ingredients, most of their foods omit these natural food sources.

Another reason why some cat foods fail at meeting a cat’s specific dietary needs is because many use plant based ingredients. These sap the feline system of important moisture that helps maintain proper functioning. So when the urine becomes too concentrated, it causes the formation of crystals which can result to a blockage and kidney disease.

As a pet owner, you should make sure to take your time when choosing cat food for your pet. As a general rule, foods that are made mostly of organic meats are best. That’s why many choose to make their own homemade cat food from fresh meats. It’s also important to make sure the food you’ve chosen doesn’t contain too much plant-based ingredients that could cause dehydration in the long run.

You may also like to consider a high protein diet as this study has shown that this may assist cats with dissolving urinary crystals more efficiently and with more ease.​

Wet vs Dry Food for Urinary Problems in Cats

In general, experts recommend a diet of wet food for cats in order to resolve or prevent urinary problems. The reason for this is the fact that wet food goes through much less processing. So from the actual animal sources such as chicken or fish, wet food retains much more of the nutritional value of the original meat. This is unlike kibble which tends to go through quite a lot of processes in order to reduce the original ingredients to a dry, biscuit form.

What’s more, wet food doesn’t cause a cat to lose hydration once it’s ingested. This helps guarantee optimal levels of fluid that won’t cause urine to concentrate in the long run.

The Best Cat Food for Urinary Health Issues Reviewed:

1. Hill’s Science Diet Canned Hairball Control & Urinary Cat Food

Of course, when it comes to urinary cat food, this is a hard formulation to beat. This specific brand specializes in providing cats with optimal nutrition to meet their specific dietary needs and to help prevent a host of different conditions and diseases.

What makes it such a great pick if you’re looking out for your cat’s urinary health is the fact that it contains a precise amount of micronutrients to help maintain proper renal function. This non prescription cat food for urinary crystals guarantees the proper pH balance and helps maintain hydration to prevent many of the common issues cats face with renal health.

Another reason why it works well for most cat owners is the fact that the food is specially designed to satisfy picky eaters. So despite being something of a prescription cat food, it doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture, so you can be sure your cat will finish a serving without too much of a fuss.

2. Purina Pro Plan "FOCUS" Urinary Tract Health Formula

A close second to Hill’s Science Diet comes from Purina. Their Urinary Tract Health Formula is a competitive recipe that comes close to the top pick on our list, which makes it a solid choice if you’re looking out for your cat’s urinary health.

This specific formulation uses real chicken and salmon to give your pet as natural a food source as possible. Aside from that, it comes packed with substantial amounts of proteins and micronutrients to help ensure optimal health inside and out.

If that hasn’t convinced you yet, it’s also worth mentioning that the Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Urinary Tract Health Formula is significantly cheaper than the Hill’s Science Diet formulation. So if you want to save on cat food without sacrificing the nutrition and health of your pet, this makes a suitable choice.

3. Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control & Urinary Dry Cat Food

If you’re one of the millions of cat owners who need to leave their cat at home while they go out to work or run errands, then you probably already know that leaving out a serving of wet cat food is like asking for disaster. Wet cat food can’t stay out for longer than 20 minutes, so it’s likely to turn bad just a few minutes after you rush out the door. For that reason, wet cat food might not be the best choice if you find that you need to leave your cat at home for more than a few hours.

Fortunately, there are some choices that help maximize urinary health despite being in dry kibble form. One of the best options in this category would have to be Hill’s Science Diet Urinary & Hairball Control Dry Cat Food.

Although dry kibble isn’t recommended for urinary health, this specific formulation features the same blend of ingredients found in the wet food variation. It’s also a lot cheaper than its wet formulation counterpart, which makes it a great investment for pet owners who want the benefits of Science Diet without putting too much of a dent on their wallet.

4. Royal Canin Feline Urinary SO 33 Dry Cat Food

Royal Canin also competes in the urinary health market with their Urinary SO 33 Dry Cat Food. Specially developed for cats at risk of urinary disease, this specific cat food maintains optimal hydration levels and encourages healthy urination to release toxins in the system.

If there’s anything about the Royal Canin formulation, it’s that it works quickly. Many of those who purchased this specific cat food were able to determine positive changes in their cats just days after they changed its diet. So if you want a fast acting solution to prevent a potential urinary issue, then you may want to shell out for this kibble.

5. Purina Pro Plan "FOCUS" Urinary Tract Health Dry Cat Food

The last pick on our list is the dry food version of the Purina Urinary Tract Health Cat Food. Much like the Hill’s Science Diet, this specific formulation is simply the dry form of the original wet food formulation, giving pet owners the option to leave food out without having to risk providing their cat a dry food choice that doesn’t take urinary health into consideration.

Price-wise, it seems this choice is the most economical. So if you want something that will put your cat’s urinary health front and center, but you don’t really have the luxury of an extravagant budget, this one takes the cake.

In Summary

Hands down, the Hill’s Science Diet Hairball Control & Urinary Cat Food is the best wet cat food for urinary health based on our research. But don’t just take our word for it. Check out each of our top picks for the best cat food for urinary health concerns and find the perfect match for your cat’s nutritional needs. Because at the end of the day, it’s your careful consideration that will help guarantee a long health future for your feline friend.

The post Best Cat Food for Urinary Health Problems (TOP 5) appeared first on Choosey Cats.